Thesis

Relational practice as an engine for change : the role of dialogue in an HSCP

Creator
Rights statement
Awarding institution
  • University of Strathclyde
Date of award
  • 2025
Thesis identifier
  • T17247
Person Identifier (Local)
  • 202074899
Qualification Level
Qualification Name
Department, School or Faculty
Abstract
  • This thesis investigates the role of relational practice as a driver for transformational change within a Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) in Scotland, drawing on the theories of Mary Parker Follett. Inspired by Follett’s emphasis on the transformative power of dialogue, the research explores how dialogic practices can foster organisational transformation by creating disturbances in established practices. Conducted as part of an applied doctorate, the study focuses on in-situ dialogic encounters, examining the organisational dynamics that either enable or resist change. What begins as a traditional organisational intervention soon evolves into a dynamic, experimental inquiry, characterised by emergence and improvisation. Central to this transformation are a series of significant encounters—both theoretical and practical—that disrupt my established research methods, leading to new insights and ways of noticing. Follett’s pragmatist philosophy, which frames reality as co-created through relational processes, provides the foundational pillars for this process. Throughout, I reflect on the reciprocal relationship between theory and practice, exploring how engagement with Follett’s concepts such as ‘The Law of the Situation’ and ‘Integration’ influence both my analysis and the participants’ transformative experiences. This approach ultimately challenges my earlier assumptions about research objectivity and leads to a shift away from conventional qualitative methodologies toward post-qualitative approaches, allowing for new forms of noticing and deeper engagement with both the material and social dimensions of organisational change. Empirically, the research reveals how relational practices, such as generative dialogue, can catalyse transformation within complex organisations such as a local HSCP. Participants’ engagement with dialogic practices led to unforeseen innovations, including improvements to the organisation’s Child Protection process. However, barriers such as online working environments, workforce capacity, and hierarchical structures are identified as impediments to creativity and reflexivity. The findings suggest that change occurs when dialogue aligns with shared purposes and when participants have the authority to act on the outcomes of their discussions. The thesis demonstrates how theory and practice can co-evolve through experimentation and dialogue. It offers practical recommendations for fostering a reflective, strengths-based culture within the HSCP and highlights the importance of integrating diverse perspectives to support transformational change. Ultimately, the research positions dialogue, as framed by Follett’s relational theories, as a powerful tool for enabling organisational evolution and invites future inquiry into its application in public sector contexts.
Advisor / supervisor
  • Simpson, Barbara
  • Van Dyke, Melissa K.
Resource Type
Note
  • This thesis is under embargo due to third party copyright issues. If you are the author of this thesis, please contact the library to resolve these issues.
DOI

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